There was not a Philadelphia Eagles rookie who impressed in his debut game against the Cincinnati Bengals in preseason more than wide receiver Darius Cooper did.
What an impressive performance for the undrafted rookie out of Tarleton State, who finished the night as the leading receiver. Cooper had six receptions for 82 yards and an impressive 20-yard touchdown with 35 seconds left in the first half as the Eagles pulled out the 34-27 win over the Bengals.
Cooper shined the most with his route running and quick feet. He ran precise routes that helped him leverage himself against defenders. His touchdown catch showcased his speed as he burned the defender. He had one catch in the second quarter, where he caught the pass and then executed a spin move to pick up extra yards.
Where does Cooper land on the Eagles' roster at the end of training camp
The Bengals game did not do any favors for the Eagles' receivers, as many of them played well. Johnny Wilson was making so many contested catches, and Ainias Smith had a touchdown catch and a 46-yard punt return.
Wilson should be credited for having the most highlight plays of the night, but Cooper had the best overall night of the receivers. He was perfect with his route running and showed he can collect the YAC yards.
Philly's most significant question is likely to be how many receivers the team will carry, given the significant talent at the position. A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Jahan Dotson seem to be the locks. Terrace Marshall Jr. and Elijah Cooks have been great in training camp, but Marshall got hurt in camp, and Cooks was carted off the field during the preseason game with an injury.
It could end up being Smith, Wilson, and Cooper battling for two spots. Alternatively, the Eagles might carry six receivers on the roster, with all of them so good.
The Eagles would be making a massive mistake if they let Cooper walk or even be on the practice squad. Cooper does it all well at receiver and, with some development, might end up being the potential replacement to Dotson as the number three receiver next year.
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It's a good thing the team has two more preseason games to make a decision, but the Bengals same showed they have a tough decision. Cooper will ensure he secures a spot on the roster, as he has earned it.